Edi Rama (born in Tirana on 4 July 1964) is the Prime Minister of the Republic of Albania. An artist, former basketball player, and professor, he co-authored Refleksione and Kurban and exhibited his work internationally. Rama entered politics in 1998 as Minister of Culture, known for revitalising Albania’s cultural life. Elected Mayor of Tirana in 2000, he transformed the city through major urban renewal projects, earning the World Mayor Award (2004) and European Hero Award by Time Magazine. Since 2005, he has led the Socialist Party of Albania, and has been the Prime Minister since 2013, currently serving his fourth term.